Gareth Southgate’s fourth game in charge might be his most nervous one considering England’s history and rivalry with Scotland. Although England sit comfortably at the top of the table in Group F and look pretty much sure to qualify for World Cup 2018, a loss here could really give a scratch to the English pride. Scotland sit in the fourth position with 4 points from 3 games and even a win here would not take them above England.
England look firm favourites to win the game having won 4 in their last 5 meetings. The last time when England and Scotland met in a competitive fixture back in November 1999 at Wembley, the visitors won 1-0. Scotland, however, lost 2-1 on aggregate.
Another encouraging sign for England is their impressive record in the qualifications at home. They have won 20 of the 27 matches at Wembley since the stadium re-opened. Scotland, on the other hand, will lose all hope if they suffer another defeat here.
Defence
Joe hart should take his position between the sticks. Gareth Southgate will definitely be sweating to get Tottenham duo Kyle Walker and Danny Rose fit for the game as they have been very impressive on the defensive flanks for Spurs. Especially Rose, whose unparalleled stamina could be a huge asset for England down the left. In case Rose is unable to shake off the knock, Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand is likely to take his place.
Similar alternative for Kyle Walker will be Nathaniel Clyne. With United’s Luke Shaw and Chris Smalling both injured, Southgate really has a shortage of options at the back. We expect Gary Cahill and John Stones to start in the centre-back positions.
Midfield
Jack Wilshere has earned a recall to the national team after a string of impressive performances in the attacking midfield for Bournemouth. However, if Southgate at all uses him, it will be in the deeper midfield role and we expect Eric Dier and Jordan Henderson to start ahead of the loanee from Arsenal.
With Southgate confirming that Wayne Rooney will be leading the team, he is expected to take the number 10 position behind the striker. With Dele Alli out with injury, there is not much of an option until Wilshere pushes up front. On the flanks, Southgate will go with the likes of Raheem Sterling and Theo Walcott. While Adam Lallana has been impressive upon returning from injury, Walcott’s form might keep him out.
Attack
Although Harry Kane played against Arsenal and scored from the spot, he didn’t look 100 percent fit. And with the option of Daniel Sturridge in that position, Southgate could opt for the latter.
